Kariba Dam Levels Rise, Easing Power Challenges in Zambia and Zimbabwe
The water levels at Kariba Dam are steadily increasing due to sustained rainfall, raising hopes for improved power generation in Zambia and Zimbabwe.
According to the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), the lake level reached 475.87m (2.61% usable storage) as of January 6, 2025, compared to 477.28m (12.32% usable storage) on the same date last year.
Both nations, which rely heavily on Kariba for hydroelectric power, have faced prolonged load shedding due to low dam levels. Zambia generates power from the dam’s northern bank, while Zimbabwe utilizes the southern bank.
This decline in water availability has significantly strained national grids, forcing authorities to implement extensive power rationing.
Zimbabwe has also dealt with challenges at Hwange Thermal Power Station, despite the recent addition of Units 7 and 8, which boosted its installed capacity to 1,520MW. Frequent breakdowns in older units (1-6) continue to disrupt power generation, although the newer units provide some relief.
Economic commentator Ms. Wendy Mpofu expressed optimism about the rising water levels at Kariba.
“With increased water levels, the power plant can generate more electricity. This is encouraging, especially as normal to above-normal rainfall has been forecasted. We remain hopeful that dam levels will rise significantly this year,” she said.
